Who is the highest-ranking MD at a hospital?

The highest-ranking MD at a hospital is the attending physician. This role represents a physician who has completed their residency and is fully licensed to practice medicine independently. Attending physicians are responsible for the overall management of patient care and make critical decisions regarding treatment plans and procedures. They often supervise residents and medical students, providing education and mentorship.

In the context of a hospital setting, attending physicians hold significant authority and are typically involved in various administrative functions as well. They lead the medical team in working with patients, coordinating with other healthcare professionals, and often have specialized areas of expertise.

The other roles mentioned, such as a resident, assistive MD, and consulting physician, play important but distinct positions within the hospital hierarchy. Residents are still in training and typically work under the supervision of attending physicians. Assistive MDs may provide support but do not carry the same level of responsibilities or authority as attending physicians. Consulting physicians are specialists who provide advice on specific cases but do not oversee the broader management of patient care like an attending physician does.